3rd Battery Light Artillery, Augusta, 1865

Description

This group photo of the 3rd Battery Light Artillery was taken in front of the Maine State House in Augusta in 1865. One of the soldiers was George Whidden of Presque Isle. Whidden went on the become a distinguished and accomplished resident of Presque Isle.

Whidden learned carpentry in Bangor and attended the Architecture School at the Cooper Institute of Drawing in New York City. Many of the early fine homes and cabinetry in Presque Isle were constructed by Whidden. George served as the Quarter Master of the Wade Post of GAR; as a Deputy Sheriff; as Treasurer of the Plantation prior to Presque Isle being incorporated; as Tax Collector, Town Clerk, a Selectman; Justice of the Peace; and member of the School Board. In addition, he served as a member of the Maine House of Representatives in 1867. Whidden also considered himself a member of "The Pioneer Club", a social group comprised of men considered early pioneers of Presque Isle. He was born in St. David's, New Brunswick, Canada on July 18, 1828 and passed away in Presque Isle on July 28, 1916. He is interred in the Fairmount Cemetery, Presque Isle.